Intrigue 46-09-11 Satan Was a Salesman

Summary

Podcast Summary: “Intrigue 46-09-11 Satan Was a Salesman” Harold's Old Time Radio
Release Date: July 28, 2025

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Harold's Old Time Radio presents a captivating dramatization of historical espionage and high-stakes armaments trading in the episode titled “Intrigue 46-09-11 Satan Was a Salesman”. This episode delves into the enigmatic life of Sir Basil Zaharoff, a notorious arms dealer whose machinations significantly influenced European politics and conflicts during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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1. Introduction to Sir Basil Zaharoff

The episode opens with Frank Graham setting the stage for a tale of espionage and manipulation:

Frank Graham [00:39]: "The central figure of our drama is a man whose name was for more than half a century a touchstone of power and mystery in European affairs. Sir Basil Zaharoff, the greatest conspirator of them all."

Joseph Schiltrout masterfully voices Zaharoff, introducing him as a charismatic yet sinister figure whose influence sowed the seeds for two devastating world wars.

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2. Early Manipulations in Constantinople and Athens

The narrative transports listeners to the bustling streets of Constantinople in the late 19th century, where a young Basil Zaharoff begins his journey:

Frank Graham [01:58]: "Like a tale out of the Arabian Nights, it begins in the teeming, bizarre lines streets of an oriental city."

Zaharoff, portrayed as a tall, suave individual with a distinctive red fez, navigates the intricate world of Balkan diplomacy. His interactions with Miss Antonides reveal his cunning nature:

Basil Zaharoff [04:26]: "Everyone has his price, Miss Antonita."

Their conversation underscores Zaharoff's expertise in leveraging social connections for his gain, hinting at his future endeavors in arms dealing.

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3. Consolidation of Armaments Firms in Stockholm

As the story progresses to the 1870s, Zaharoff evolves into a pivotal figure in Athens' political landscape. His proposal to Captain Lindstrom to facilitate clandestine arms shipments marks the beginning of his deep involvement in the arms trade:

Basil Zaharoff [05:06]: "If a man had something he wanted to send from Constantinople to Athens, for instance, and didn't want to risk sending it in the usual way."

Despite initial setbacks and ethical confrontations, Zaharoff's relentless pursuit leads him to Stockholm, where he orchestrates the merger of prominent armaments firms:

M. Antonides [12:29]: "I am even considering granting you a rise in salary to £10 a week."

This maneuver not only solidifies his influence but also sets the stage for his strategic partnerships.

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4. The Encounter with Hiram Maxim

A critical turning point occurs during Zaharoff's encounter with Hiram Maxim, the inventor of the machine gun. Their interaction epitomizes Zaharoff's manipulative prowess:

Basil Zaharoff [18:14]: "It's the business of Statesmen to worry about casualties. You and I merely furnish the guns."

Zaharoff proposes a partnership to Maxim, exploiting his invention to monopolize the arms market. This alliance highlights Zaharoff's ability to blend business acumen with moral ambiguity, further cementing his role as the "incarnation of Satan" in political spheres.

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5. The Final Machinations and Rise to Power

The culmination of Zaharoff's schemes is portrayed through his influence over European conflicts and his strategic marriages, such as his interaction with Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros:

Maria Duquesa [21:39]: "Tell me, monsieur, is it true that you go around stirring up wars and creating troubles among the nations in order to sell guns to them?"

Zaharoff's unapologetic response underscores his self-awareness and acceptance of his role in perpetuating conflict for profit:

Basil Zaharoff [22:17]: "Am I to blame for the stupidity of nations?"

His relentless pursuit of profit and power, coupled with his intricate network of alliances and manipulations, positions him as a shadowy puppeteer orchestrating European affairs.

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6. Conclusion and Legacy of Basil Zaharoff

The episode concludes with Zaharoff's death in 1936, leaving behind a legacy of widespread influence and unchallenged dominance in the arms industry:

Frank Graham [29:11]: "Thus, without ceremony and without fanfare, with no mourners save his secretarial staff and household servants, the man who dominated Europe... is laid away in his final resting place."

Despite his demise, the narrative suggests that Zaharoff's impact on global politics and warfare endures, encapsulating the essence of his title, "Satan Was a Salesman."

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Notable Quotes and Moments

• Zaharoff on Manipulation:

  Basil Zaharoff [10:05]: "£5 sterling a week is the price of your patriotism."

• Conflict with Antonides:

  Miss Antonides [10:46]: "Oh, you think you're very clever. A thousand pound bribe, a few thousand commission. But you killed the goose that laid your golden eggs."

• Zaharoff's Justification:

  Basil Zaharoff [18:38]: "Engineer. Make you the most powerful man in Europe overnight."

• Zaharoff's Philosophy:

  Basil Zaharoff [21:58]: "I can't help myself. You see, Greece will buy two because I will tell them Turkey already has one..."

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Insights and Themes

• Moral Ambiguity: The episode explores the thin line between entrepreneurship and exploitation, embodied by Zaharoff's character who prioritizes profit over ethical considerations.

• Power and Influence: Zaharoff's ability to manipulate political scenarios for personal gain highlights the profound impact individuals can have on global events.

• Humanity vs. Machination: The interactions between Zaharoff and other characters, such as Hiram Maxim and Maria Duquesa, juxtapose human emotions against calculated business moves, emphasizing the complex interplay between personal and professional realms.

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Conclusion

“Satan Was a Salesman” offers a riveting portrayal of Sir Basil Zaharoff, blending historical facts with dramatic storytelling to illuminate the dark underbelly of arms dealing and its repercussions on world history. Through sharp dialogue, intricate plot developments, and compelling characterizations, the episode serves as a potent reminder of how individual ambition can shape the course of nations.

For listeners unfamiliar with the original drama, this summary encapsulates the essence of Zaharoff's rise to power, his manipulative strategies, and the lasting impact of his actions on global affairs.

Transcript

[Frank Graham]

VBS presents Intrigue. Tales of espionage, manhunt and high adventure.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Good evening. This is Joseph Shelf Proud, your guide tonight on this last of our summer excursions into the land of intrigue. The central figure of our drama is a man whose name was for more than half a century a touchstone of power and mystery in European affairs. Sir Basil Zaharoff, the greatest conspirator of them all. Whence he came, what was the source of his power, no man knew. Yet he led Europe's rulers into a maze of diplomatic skullduggery and international duplicity that ended in two great world wars. Come now on this most strange and sinister journey into the land of intrigue.

[Frank Graham]

Joseph Schiltrout stars as Sir Basil Zaharoff.

The mystery man of Europe.

[M. Antonides]

As CBS brings you. Satan Was a Salesman.

[Frank Graham]

Like a tale out of the Arabian Nights, it begins in the teeming, bizarre line streets of an oriental city. Our hero moves among beggars. But he is tall and well made, and his blonde hair stands out like a banner of revolt against the mean and swarthy aspect of his fellows. He walks with a firm and arrogant stride, a little red fez cocked at a rakish angle on his handsome head. And on this day, he is to be seen turning in at the gate of a fine mansion in Constantinople's International Settlement.

[M. Antonides]

August 4, 1869. Dear Antonitus, this will introduce Basil Zaharoff, an expert on Balkan diplomacy. The young man of rare and unique attainments occurred to me that you might find him useful in some of your enterprises. If not, I think you'll at least find him amusing to talk to.

[Hiram Maxim]

F.

[M. Antonides]

Oh, you're an expert on bin diplomacy, eh, Basil?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, Miss Antonis.

[M. Antonides]

How old are you?

[Basil Zaharoff]

18, sir.

[Frank Graham]

Zahara.

[M. Antonides]

But you're Greek.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, sir. Basilio Zaharias is my real name, sir.

[M. Antonides]

All ready for the Russian invasion, aren't you?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, sir.

[M. Antonides]

Isn't that rather a drastic precaution?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Well, sir, for instance, if I'm a Greek with a Russian name, people who don't like Greeks can say, well, he's not really a Greek. And people who don't like Russians can say, well, he's not really a Russian.

[Frank Graham]

That's an ingenious idea.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, I thought so too, sir. I have an important advantage which has cost me nothing simply by changing my name.

[M. Antonides]

You're priceless, Basil.

[Miss Antonides]

Absolutely priceless.

[M. Antonides]

You should know that.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Every man has his price, M. Antonita.

[M. Antonides]

H. Why, hi.

[Miss Antonides]

Special.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Well, you live in a very fine house here in Constantinople, M. Anton.

[Frank Graham]

What are you driving at?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Nothing. Sir, I merely noticed what a fine house you live in. And yet you are merely the correspondent for a newspaper in Athens.

[M. Antonides]

Why you insolent.

[Miss Antonides]

Yes, I should have you thrown out of here.

[Basil Zaharoff]

You won't, Miss Antonides, you won't. You know that I could sell my ideas about you to the Turkish secret police.

[M. Antonides]

Yes, you're very clever, Basil. I don't think you have anything to tell about me except your vague suspicions.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Who sent me to you? Mr. Antonides, the British ex consul. I ask myself, why are you and he such great friends? You obviously have nothing in common. Then I ask myself, why did he send me to you? In his eyes I'm a criminal, a petty thief, but a confidence man of the bazaar.

[M. Antonides]

I don't think he's far wrong.

[Basil Zaharoff]

That is a mistake, sir. Crime is only a means for an end, Monsieur Antonides. No intelligent man would make a career of it. But a man who knew his way around the underworld of Constantinople could be very useful indeed. To a spy, for instance.

[M. Antonides]

What's your proposition?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Well, sir, I spend a good deal of my time around the waterfall where I pick up jobs as a tourist guide. Now, most of the ship captains know me. I do business with some of them on a commission basis. Now, if a man had something he wanted to send from Constantinople to Athens, for instance, and didn't want to risk sending it in the usual way.

[Hiram Maxim]

I.

[M. Antonides]

Think you and I can do business.

[Frank Graham]

Europe in the 1870s. Russia and Turkey, the two great remaining powers of feudalism locked in a death struggle. And little Greece bridged between Asia and Europe. Caught between them in a precarious neutrality.

[M. Antonides]

In Athens, a new political figure has.

[Frank Graham]

Appeared upon the scene. His name is Anthemides and his secretary is a young man named Basil Zahara. No longer does young Zaharoff sported Johnny Red fez. His clothes are made by an English tailor and he's quite a young man about town. But he still visits the waterfront from time to time. And one evening in the year 1877 in a bar at Piraeus, the port of Athens.

[M. Antonides]

Well, this is my last voyage, lad. They are retiring me.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Oh, I'm sorry to hear that, Captain Lindstrm.

[M. Antonides]

There's a little job I've been doing on the side. Not much money in it, but I thought I might throw it your way now that I'm going home to Sweden for good. But I suppose you'd be too busy with your politics to consider it.

[Basil Zaharoff]

What kind of a job is it?

[M. Antonides]

Well, as you know, there are a number of sidelines to being the Ship captain in this part of the world. Among other things, I have been acting as one of the agents for Nordenfeld, the Swedish munitions firm.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Oh, well, there ought to be good money in that.

[M. Antonides]

In Russia or Turkey perhaps. Greece has never been one of our big customers. And now that both the warring powers have guaranteed Greek and clarity.

[Basil Zaharoff]

How much does the job pay, Captain Lindstrom?

[M. Antonides]

Only five pounds sterling a week, but it's not difficult. Yes, all you have to do is drop around to the war office in Athens once in a while and see if there's anything they want in the way of rifle. Once in a while we order a small cannon or a house, sir, for.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Five pounds sterling. Will buy quite a lot of Greek money at the present rate of exchange.

[M. Antonides]

That's what I was thinking. But of course, if you're too busy with your political work for anti navy.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Not at all, captain, not at all. As a matter of fact, I think guns and politics would make a splendid combination.

[Mr. Nordenfeld]

Yes.

[M. Antonides]

I remember meeting you now though, at Antonides House. The night I became minister of War.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, your Excellency. I was his agent in Constantinople for several years.

[M. Antonides]

So you were responsible for that brilliant work.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Well, sir, I have no intentions of deprecating Antonides. As a matter of fact, sir, I have come with a message from M. Antonides. A message of most urgent and confidential nature.

[M. Antonides]

Yeah, what is it?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Great neutrality, sir, is on the point of being violated.

[M. Antonides]

What? The source of Antony is information.

[Basil Zaharoff]

I am.

[M. Antonides]

You bring me a message from Anthony's based on information furnished by you.

[Basil Zaharoff]

That's marvelous, your Excellency. I have it from no less an authority than Mr. Nordenfeld, the head of the firm I represent, that guns purchased from Crook with Russian money have been shipped into Bulgaria. And I at this very moment being moved up to our northern frontier. This is a disaster.

[M. Antonides]

How many guns are hero?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Oh, I have a list of them right here, sir.

[Hiram Maxim]

This is true.

[M. Antonides]

Greece is finished.

[Frank Graham]

I cannot hope to match a battery like this.

[Basil Zaharoff]

There's one way it might be accomplished, sir.

[Frank Graham]

How would take weeks to get a shipment here?

[Basil Zaharoff]

There's a ship lying offshore outside the harbor at the this moment awaiting my orders. It's carrying a cargo of guns and artillery that would more than match the new Bulgarian batteries. Yes, but alas, the shipment says consigned.

[M. Antonides]

To the Turkish army. Did you say this ship is awaiting your orders?

[Hiram Maxim]

That's correct.

[M. Antonides]

Then order it into the harbor. As a Greek, it is your duty to let us have those guns. Why?

[Basil Zaharoff]

It might cost me my job.

[M. Antonides]

How much Does Nordenfeld pay £5 sterling a week is the price of your patriotism.

[Basil Zaharoff]

£5 sterling a week? No, I was thinking of a somewhat larger sum. That is a thousand pounds sterling in cash.

[M. Antonides]

Young man, you'll come to a bad end.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, that may be, your Excellency. That may be. But somehow or other I must make a beginning. How dare you?

[M. Antonides]

How dare you use my name to.

[Miss Antonides]

Extort money from the government.

[Basil Zaharoff]

I had intended to split this money with you, Mr. Antonides, but since you feel this way about her.

[Miss Antonides]

Oh, you think you're very clever. A thousand pound bribe, a few thousand commission. But you killed the goose that laid your golden eggs.

[M. Antonides]

A half off.

[Miss Antonides]

You're finished. You hear me?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Finished. Very good. That suits me very well, Mr. Antonides. I'm leaving Athens anyway. Goodbye. I'm taking a train for Sophia tonight.

[M. Antonides]

Oh, now, I suppose you're going to.

[Miss Antonides]

Try to sell a bigger shipment of guns to Bulgaria by showing them the respect receipts from the Greek shipments.

[M. Antonides]

I'd be a fool if I didn't.

[Miss Antonides]

Oh, it'll be another few thousand, but there it ends. When you're found out, your name will be poison in both countries.

[M. Antonides]

Then where will you go?

[Basil Zaharoff]

To Russia, sir. To Russia? To collect my bonus for having diverted that shipment from Turkey to Green.

[Frank Graham]

This is a dangerous game you're playing.

[Miss Antonides]

Greek neutrality is already in the delicate balance. A few maneuvers like this might be all it would take to plunge us into this war.

[Basil Zaharoff]

I'll let you politicians make the wars. I'll furnish the guns.

[Miss Antonides]

Oh, have you not one spark of patriotism?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Why, certainly, sir. I will always be willing to sell Greece as many guns as you can pay for.

[M. Antonides]

Welcome to Stockholm. Congratulations on those magnificent sales to Greece and Bulgaria.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Thank you, sir.

[M. Antonides]

Tell me, how did you manage it?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Oh, I studied some of the principles of salesmanship, Mr. Norton.

[M. Antonides]

Indeed, you must have. I don't mind telling you, I consider you our most valuable salesman at the present time.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Thank you, sir.

[M. Antonides]

I am even considering granting you a rise in salary to £10 a week.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Oh, well, that is most generous of you, Mr. Norton.

[M. Antonides]

And I'm giving you a chance to triple that if you succeed in the new mission I have in mind for you.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, what is that, sir?

[M. Antonides]

I am sending you to Paris on a job of a most confidential nature. Briefly, this is the problem. Some mysterious personage has been cornering Nordenfeld stock through some rather unethical maneuvering on the bush. I want to find out who that man is.

[Basil Zaharoff]

And when you find out, I don't.

[M. Antonides]

Know what I shall do. But unless we put a stop to his operations, I shall wake up some morning and find myself with a new partner. This firm has always been in the Norden Kent family, M. Zahara. It would be a terrible blow to me and to Sweden should it fall into the hands of foreign speculators.

[Basil Zaharoff]

I am sorry you take this narrow view of it, Mr. Nordenfeld, eh?

[M. Antonides]

Or said Sir Harold, the man who's.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Been buying your stocks in Paris. Your new partner, sir, is myself.

[M. Antonides]

You? You're joking, of course. No, no, no, no, no, Mr. Nodmouth, not at all. I am your new business partner.

[Miss Antonides]

Congratulations.

[M. Antonides]

Whom are you acting as agent for?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Basil Zahara.

[M. Antonides]

That's ridiculous. How on earth could you manage to raise all that money?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Now, look, there's no reason we shouldn't know each other's secrets now that we are partners. Mr. Norton. The checks for the Bulgarian orders were made out in my name at the insistence of the Bulgarian minister, of course, and deposited in my personal account in Paris.

[M. Antonides]

You embezzled?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Borrowed it for a few days only. Bought Nordenfeld stock, forced it up and borrowed against the stock I hold to repay the loan. Sir, you will find my accounts with.

[M. Antonides]

You accurate to the penny of all the dishonest reprimands.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Now, Mr. Nordenfeld. Mr. Nordenfeld, if we are to be partners, we had better be friends. If you show a cooperative spirit, you will have no cause to regret our association. Now then, to begin with, sir, our production must be be greatly increased. Austria Hungary is arming as fast as you can. We must be able to supply her. As soon as we have completed the reorganization of our company, sir, I am leaving for Vienna to close our deal with the Austro Hungarian government.

[M. Antonides]

Not so fast, Zaharov. You've made a very clever beginning. But selling to a great empire is not quite the same as selling to little Balkan countries. The great powers will buy only the newest contrivances. The most up to date Weapons.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Quite, sir, quite. We will supply them.

[M. Antonides]

I'm not so sure we can. There's a man in Vienna now, an American named Hiram Maxim. He has invented a new weapon which.

[Frank Graham]

He calls a machine gun.

[M. Antonides]

A gun that will fire several hundred shots a minute. He holds a patent on the device and my experts tell me it cannot be made without his patent.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Has he demonstrated this gun yet?

[M. Antonides]

He will give a demonstration of it before the Emperor Franz Joseph next week.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Very good. I better leave for Vienna tonight.

[M. Antonides]

It's quite hopeless. You can't hope to compete with Maxim, Mr. Nordenfeld.

[Basil Zaharoff]

We have a saying in the Levant. If you want to destroy a man first, make him your partner.

[M. Antonides]

An astounding invention, Mr. Maxim. Yes, this certainly beats anything Nordenfeld has shown us. Mr. Zahara.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Your Majesty, it fires rapidly, but you can't win a war with one gun.

[M. Antonides]

How many of these can you deliver, Mr. Maxim?

[Frank Graham]

Well, your majesty, I'd have to take some time.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, yes, precisely, your majesty, precisely. A weapon like this, sir, with hundreds of precision parts put together with the art of a jeweler. Mr. Maxim, how long did it take you to construct this one model?

[Frank Graham]

Well, three years.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, yes, yes, thank you. Just as I thought, just as I thought. You see, your Majesty, brilliant as Mr. Maxim invention is, it's thoroughly impractical, I'm afraid, to manufacture in sufficient quantities to equip a great army such as yours. Your majesty. Wife.

[M. Antonides]

It simply couldn't be done.

[Frank Graham]

Now, look here, Mr. Zahara.

[M. Antonides]

There's something in what Mr. Zahara says. Father. Yes, yes, I never thought of that. It is a fascinating toy, Mr. Maxim, but I'm afraid that's all it ever will be.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Good day, your majesty.

[Hiram Maxim]

Good day, your majesty.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Better luck next time, Maxim.

[Hiram Maxim]

Next time.

[Frank Graham]

You realize that I invested my life savings in that demonstration today. I even haven't even got the fare.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Back to the States.

[Frank Graham]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Basil Zaharoff]

If there's anything I can do, I'd be very happy to advance you a small amount for the steamship fare, second class.

[Frank Graham]

I'll just bet you would. I will not take any of your charity. See, I'm going to stay here and fight.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Supposing you succeed in getting an order for your machine guns, where will you get the capital to build a factory?

[Frank Graham]

If I can show an order for a hundred or more, any bank in Europe will finance me, and you know it.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Why be content with a hundred? If Austria orders a hundred, England will order a thousand, Germany with order 5,000, and France will order 10,000. The race will be on. But you haven't even a plan. It will be a year at least before you can get into production.

[Frank Graham]

I did not make too many of them anyway.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Good heavens, man, are you completely mad?

[Frank Graham]

Would be madness to use a weapon like this in such a large scale. Casualties on both sides would be unthinkable.

[Basil Zaharoff]

It's the business of States men to worry about casualties. You and I merely furnish the guns. If they're stupid enough to kill each other off with them, it's none of our affair.

[Frank Graham]

Sorry, I can't see it that way.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Look at it this way. With this invention, you can buy into every armament firm. In Europe, Maxim, in a position like that, you could exercise influence over the governments. You could certainly control the production of arms.

[Frank Graham]

But I'm not an international firm seer.

I'm only an inventor.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Engineer. Make you the most most powerful man in Europe overnight.

[Frank Graham]

Oh, that's a crazy way to talk.

[Basil Zaharoff]

It would be easy. Come now, come now, Maxim, listen. As competitors, we only do each other harm. Why not be partners?

[Frank Graham]

Oh, what's in it for me?

[Basil Zaharoff]

A full partnership in Northern Felt.

[Frank Graham]

I thought you were just a salesman.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, I am. And that's why I can offer you with confidence a full partnership in Northern Felt of Sweden. No strings attached. You understand? It will be Maxim and Nordenfeld tomorrow. Your name first. Well, Maxine, how about it?

[Frank Graham]

All right, Zahara, let's be partners. If you want to destroy a man, first make him your partner.

With the formation of the new armaments firm of Maxim and Nordenfeld, it was announced today Mr. Nordenfeld, the founder of the firm, would retire from active participation in the business. Mr. Nordenfeld's duties will be taken over by a newcomer, Mr. Basil Sahara.

[Mr. Nordenfeld]

The firm of Maxim and Nordenfeld today merged with the British armaments firm of Vickers Limited. It was announced that Mr. Maxim would retire from active participation in the business. Mr. Maxim's duties will be taken over by Mr. Basil the Hollow.

[Frank Graham]

Upon the merger of the firm of Armstrong and Brown with Vickers Limited, it was announced that Mr. Albert Vickers would retire from active participation in the business. Mr. Vickers duties will be taken over by Mr. Vassil Sahara.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Excuse me, mademoiselle, is this place taken?

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

Why, no, Monsieur. Won't you join me?

[Hiram Maxim]

Thank you.

[Basil Zaharoff]

I thought perhaps you were waiting for your husband.

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

My husband never travels with me.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Oh, if I were in his place, mademoiselle, you would never travel alone.

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

You're very gallant, Monsieur Zaharoff. Not the fabulous Monsieur Zaharoff.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Am I that fabulous?

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

Oh, and mysterious too. So the newspapers.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Afraid in this case, madame, you are the mysterious one.

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

Oh, I'm sorry. I am Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Your Highness, I am deeply honored. It's a pity that I meet you while I'm yet a commoner.

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

Oh, you expect to receive a title?

[Basil Zaharoff]

Well, after all, madame, I can't marry you without some sort of title.

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

But monsieur, you've only just met me.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, I know. I'm very good at snap judgments. I've never made a mistake.

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

Never made a mistake? No, you're not even human.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Some people insist that I actually am the incarnation Of Satan.

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

Tell me, monsieur, is it true that you go around stirring up wars and creating troubles among the nations in order to sell guns to them?

[Basil Zaharoff]

What nonsense. I'm merely a salesman. A simple salesman. I'll take this strip, for instance. I'm on my way to Greece, my home. By the way, I have here with me the plans for a submarine. A boat, madame, that will sail under the water.

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

You intend to sell the submarines only to Greece or to all the nations?

[Basil Zaharoff]

I can't help myself. You see, Greece will buy two because I will tell them Turkey already has one. Turkey will buy four because Greece has two. Russia will buy 10 because Turkey has four. And Germany will buy a whole fleet because of Russia. Britain will by a bigger feet because of Germany. And so it goes. Am I to blame for the stupidity of nations?

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

You know, there is something rather satanic about you. Those cold gray eyes and that little pointed goatee.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Could I tempt you, your highness?

[Hiram Maxim]

Perhaps.

[Maria Duquesa de Via Franca de los Caballeros]

In the meantime, please remember that I am a married woman.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Yes, and I'm still a commoner.

[Frank Graham]

25,000 guns. 240,000 machine guns. 4,000,000 rifles. 258,000 high explosive shells. 3,190,000. 135 British casualties. Such were the services of Basil Zaharoff to the British Empire in the First World War. And his reward.

[M. Antonides]

For extraordinary services to the Empire in time of war and for assistance in the preparation of our peacetime defenses. I dub the night Grand Cross of the British Empire. Arise, Sir Basil.

[Frank Graham]

And so the little street urchin of Constantinople became a great prince and lived with the princess in blissful happiness in their castle on the river was. If death had not claimed the princess, they might have lived happily ever after. And there might have been no World War II. But before many years had passed, the goat bearded gentleman with a satanic face once more appeared in the capitals of Europe. And the very sight of him struck terror to the hearts of well meaning statesmen. Once more the name of Basil Saharof began to make news.

March 15, 1920. A new banking syndicate has been formed, formed in Greece with Sir vassal Zaharoff as its director. As her vassal arrived in Athens, the Greek army was mobilizing for an offensive against Turkey.

[Mr. Nordenfeld]

Sebezel Zahara, war maker extraordinary, has done it again. Following a Zahara financial agreement with the House of Mitsubishi. And the Japanese army is concentrating troops in Korea in preparation for an onslaught on the Chinese province of Manchuria.

[Frank Graham]

Vassals of Harlov arrived in Rome today on the eve of Senor Mussolini's declaration of war Against Ethiopia.

[Mr. Nordenfeld]

One of the notable Europeans wintering in Spanish Morocco this season is Sir Basil Saharo. General Francisco Flaco, leader of the insurgent forces against the Spanish Republic. Give a banquet in his honor.

[Frank Graham]

He had the stage set for his second great war. But he was not to live to see it through. In 1936, socialites arriving early for the season in Monte Carlo. Noticed a petulant old man in a wheelchair Being trundled about the grounds of the Hotel de Paris. Only a few realized that he owned the casino in which they had come to gamble. And was the undisputed dictator of the soil upon which they tried. An ill temper old man, bundled up in an overcoat, a heavy steamer rug across his knees. Shivering in the mid summer weather. Wincing at the balmy breezes that wafted gently in from the warm Mediterranean across the Bay of Monaco.

[Hiram Maxim]

It seems to me the. The winters are not so warm here as they used to be. Yes, Sir Basil. Look. Look at those fools rushing up to the casino to lose their money. Why don't they save it and invest it? They should do that, shouldn't they? All rich. Yes, Sir Basil. They don't even know that I own the casino. As I fool them all. Don't I, Henry? Yes, that I do.

[Basil Zaharoff]

You know, Henry, you're such a close mouth scoundrel. I'm going to tell you why I.

[Hiram Maxim]

Bought this ridiculous principality of Monte Carlo. The papers said I bought it for a plaything. Idiots. Don't they realize I had to do something like this? Now I'm so old I can't get around anymore. Now those kings and queens and idiotic prime ministers have to come to me.

[Basil Zaharoff]

And when they lose their fortunes at the gaming tables. I make their losses good for them. And they make my losses good for me. You see, Henri, when they get home again, they always get their war ministers.

[Hiram Maxim]

To send me a nice fat order.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Your employer is a pretty far gentleman, are we?

[Hiram Maxim]

Yes, Sir Basil. Yes, Sir.

[Basil Zaharoff]

B.

[Hiram Maxim]

Yes, sir. Hey, did you send that letter I.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Told you off to Baronourt?

[Hiram Maxim]

Yes, Sir Basil. Listen, I want to be placed in the tomb right beside the Duchess. You remember that. Yes, Sir Basil. And make sure the steam heating is.

[Basil Zaharoff]

In operation at all times.

[Hiram Maxim]

If I can't get warm in this accursed cold climate I'm forced to live in. At least I shall be warm in my tomb, Eh, Henri? Yes, Sir Basil. I'm Eddie. It's getting shady here, Henri. Wheel me over there in the sun by that rose bush. I was always fond of roses and cold yes. Can't anyone, anywhere say anything to me, but yes.

[Frank Graham]

It is a gray November day in the year 1936. The Chateau de Balloncourt, near Bontoise in France. A long black car decked with funeral plumes moved slowly up the long winding road. In the funeral car, in a severely plain ebony box, lie the mortal remains of the master of Balloncourt, Sir Basil Zahara. Far off Knight Grand Cross of the British Empire, Night Grand Cross of the Bath, Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor, Member of the Order of Franz Joseph, Recipient of the Kaiser Wilhelm Medal, Grandee of Spain, Greek Order of the Savior Order Order of the Ottoman Empire and Regent of Monte Carlo. At the door of the chapel on the estate grounds at Ballincourt, the funeral car draws to a halt and a.

[M. Antonides]

Company of liveried servants lift the ebony.

[Frank Graham]

Box and carry it to its final resting place.

[Hiram Maxim]

Place.

[Frank Graham]

Thus, without ceremony and without fanfare, with no mourners save his secretarial staff and household servants, the man who dominated Europe.

[M. Antonides]

Through the crucial years of two centuries.

[Frank Graham]

Is laid away in his final resting place.

[Hiram Maxim]

Well, that's done.

[M. Antonides]

There's only one thing that still puzzles me.

[Basil Zaharoff]

What's that?

[Hiram Maxim]

His wanting a steam heated tomb.

[Basil Zaharoff]

He won't need any heat where he's going. This is Joseph Schillfroud, your guide tonight on our final journey into the land of intrigue.

[M. Antonides]

I hope you have enjoyed these summer.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Excursions as much as I've enjoyed acting as your guide. I wish to thank Frank Graham, the narrator on tonight's show. Also Tom Collins, Romero and Stone, Jay Novello, Pat McGeehan, Alec Harper, George Mees.

[Hiram Maxim]

Norman Field and James Matthews, who have.

[Basil Zaharoff]

Been more or less regular members of our company.

[M. Antonides]

For the words of Robert Tallman and.

[Basil Zaharoff]

The music of Love Gluston, my thanks for a job well done. To Charles Vanda, the Great Book K for his production guidance. Good night and goodbye for now.

[Mr. Nordenfeld]

This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System.